BridgeIP BCM-144 VHF/2M MOBILE RADIO FOR AMATEUR USE User Manual

Download:
Mirror Download [FCC.gov]
Document ID	3284212
Application ID	BvQ81leNycqbCljXuLOJ0w==
Document Description	Users Manual
Short Term Confidential	No
Permanent Confidential	No
Supercede	No
Document Type	User Manual
Display Format	Adobe Acrobat PDF - pdf
Filesize	84.82kB (1060230 bits)
Date Submitted	2017-02-15 00:00:00
Date Available	2017-02-15 00:00:00
Creation Date	2017-02-08 16:07:10
Producing Software	PDF Architect 4
Document Lastmod	2017-02-08 16:07:10
Document Title	Users Manual
Document Creator	PDF Architect 4
Document Author:	BES2

BCM-144 User Manual
By BridgeCom Systems, Inc.
Copyright  2017 BY
Bridge Embedded Systems, Inc
Version 1.1, Feb 2017
All rights reserved.
Printed in the United States of America.
Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation
For Technical Support, please contact:
BridgeCom Systems, Inc.
102 NE State Route 92 Highway, Suite C
Smithville, MO 64089
Tel: (816)-532-8451
techsupport@BridgeComSystems.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................ 5
WELCOME ...........................................................................................................................5
SAFETY, WARNINGS, AND PRECAUTIONS:......................................................................................5
SPECIFICATIONS: ............................................................................................................. 8
FEATURES ...........................................................................................................................9
CHAPTER 2: GETTING ACQUAINTED ............................................................................... 10
CHAPTER 3: CONTROLS AND DISPLAY OVERVIEW ......................................................... 11
FRONT PANEL KEYPAD: ......................................................................................................... 11
TRI-COLORED STATUS LED: .................................................................................................. 11
DTMF MICROPHONE KEYPAD: ................................................................................................. 11
CHAPTER 4: QUICK START – GET ME ON THE AIR! .......................................................... 12
PROGRAMMING FOR USE WITH A 2 METER REPEATER: ...................................................................... 12
SETTING RX FREQUENCY: ...................................................................................................... 12
OFFSET FOR TX ................................................................................................................ 12
RX CTCSS/DCS ENTRY ....................................................................................................... 13
TX CTCSS/DCS ENTRY ....................................................................................................... 13
CHAPTER 5: BASIC OPERATION...................................................................................... 14




FREQUENCY MODE (VFO) ................................................................................................ 14
MEMORY MODE ............................................................................................................. 14
ALIGNMENT MODE ......................................................................................................... 15
RADIO PERSONALITY MENU MODE ....................................................................................... 15
CHAPTER 6: HOW-TO FUNCTION GUIDE: ........................................................................ 16
● VFO FREQUENCY ENTRY ..................................................................................................... 16
● STORING A CHANNEL TO MEMORY .......................................................................................... 16
● DELETING A CHANNEL FROM MEMORY ...................................................................................... 16
● SENDING DTMF TONES WHILE TRANSMITTING ........................................................................... 16
RADIO ALIGNMENT .......................................................................................................... 17

SETTING SQUELCH (SQL).............................................................................................. 17

CHANGING POWER LEVEL ................................................................................................. 17

CHANGING TX VOICE DEVIATION ................................................................................... 18

CHANGING TX CTCSS/DCS DEVIATION............................................................................... 18

CHANGING DTMF TONE DEVIATION .................................................................................... 19

CHANGING CHANNEL SPACING ........................................................................................... 19
PERSONALITY SETTINGS .................................................................................................. 20

CHANGING FREQUENCY STEP SIZE ...................................................................................... 20

CHANGING RX SIGNAL .................................................................................................. 20

CHANGING TX SIGNAL .................................................................................................. 21

CHANGING THE FREQUENCY OFFSET ................................................................................ 21

CHANGE THE BEEP TONES ON/OFF.................................................................................... 22

TX TIME OUT TIME (TOT) ............................................................................................... 22
SCAN OPERATION............................................................................................................ 23

CHANGING UN-MUTE CONDITION ........................................................................................ 24

CHANGING SCAN SPEED TIME ............................................................................................ 24

CHANGING SCAN HANG TIME ............................................................................................ 25

CHANGING SCAN WAIT FOR SIGNAL TIME ............................................................................. 25
CHAPTER 7: DATA CHANNELS AND DATA OPERATION .................................................... 26
APPENDIX A: TERMINAL DESCRIPTION.......................................................................... 27
APPENDIX B: CTCSS/DCS TABLES .................................................................................. 28
AVAILABLE CTCSS TONES ..................................................................................................... 28
WARRANTY AND SERVICE .............................................................................................. 29
FCC STATEMENTS ........................................................................................................... 30
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
Welcome
Thank you for purchasing the BCM-144 mobile two-way radio. The goal of the BCM-144 is to
provide a cost-effective, feature rich, easy-to-use mobile radio for users of the 2m amateur radio
spectrum. This Owner’s Manual will acquaint you with the features and operation of the BCM-144.
Every effort has been made in the preparation of this manual to ensure the accuracy of its
contents. Carefully read this manual in order to properly operate the radio before use.
Safety, Warnings, and Precautions:
Government law restricts the operation of unlicensed radio transmitters within
government controlled territories. Illegal operation is punishable by fine or imprisonment
or both. Refer service to qualified technicians only.
EXPLOSIVE ATMOSPHERIC HAZARDS (GASES, DUST, FUMES, etc.)
Shut OFF the BCM-144 while refueling or while parked at gasoline stations. Do not carry
spare fuel containers in the trunk of your vehicle if your transceiver is mounted in the
trunk area.
INJURY FROM RADIO FREQUENCY TRANSMISSIONS
Do not operate your BCM-144 when somebody is either touching the antenna or standing
within two to three feet of it to avoid the possibility of radio frequency burns or related
physical injury.

Do NOT attempt to configure your transceiver while driving.

The BCM-144 is designed for 13.8V DC Power. Do not use a 24V battery to power the BCM144.

Do not place the BCM-144 in excessively dusty, humid, or wet areas.

As much as possible, keep the BCM-144 away from RF interfering devices.

Do not transmit with HIGH output power for extended periods. The transceiver may
overheat.

If an abnormal odor or smoke is detected coming from the BCM-144, turn OFF the radios or
unplug the power immediately. Contact BridgeCom Systems TechSupport.

Do not operate the transceiver when vehicle engine is stopped for extended periods. The
vehicle engine may not start due to low battery.

Do not use incompatible accessories from other manufactures. It could result in damage and
or malfunction to the accessory and or to the radio. Only use BridgeCom Systems approved
accessories.
Unpacking and Radio Preparation:
Electronic equipment (e.g. electronic fuel injection, anti-skid braking, and cruise
control) in your vehicle may malfunction if not properly protected from the RF energy
generated when the BCM-144 is transmitting. Enlist the aid of a knowledgeable Ham or
vehicle mechanic in determining if the equipment will perform normally while
transmitting.
Vehicle Power Cable Connection:

The BCM-144 operates on 12V negative ground systems only! Check the battery polarity
and voltage of vehicle before installing the transceiver. Decide whether to power the radio
from the vehicle “HOT” wire line or the ignition key enabled ACC or ON wire.

Check for an existing hole that is conveniently located in the firewall. This will allow for the
power cable to easily pass through.

If no hole exists, use a circle cutter to drill a hole, then install a rubber grommet.

Run the power cable though the firewall and into the engine compartment.

Connect the red lead to the (+) battery terminal and the black lead to the negative (-)
battery terminal.

Place the fuse as close to the battery as possible.

Coil the surplus cable and secure it with a retaining band.

Be sure to leave enough slack in the cables so the transceiver can be removed for servicing
while keeping the power applied.
Install procedure for inside the vehicle:
For passenger safety, install the BCM-144 securely using the supplied mounting bracket
and screw set. This will ensure the radio will not break loose in the event of a collision.

Mark the position of the hole in the dash, using the mounting bracket as a template.

Using a 4.2mm (5/32 inch) drill bit, drill the holes, then attach the mounting bracket using
the supplied screws. Mount the transceiver within easy reach of the user and where there is
sufficient space at the rear of the transceiver for cable connections.

Connect the antenna and the supplied power cable to the radio.

Slide the transceiver into the mounting bracket and secure it using the supplied hex-headed
screws.

Mount the microphone hanger in a location where it will be within easy reach of the user.

The microphone and microphone cable should be mounted in a place where they will not
interfere with the safe operation of the vehicle.
FUSE REPLACEMENT: When replacing the fuse in the DC power cable, be sure to
replace it with a fuse of the same value (15A). Never replace a fuse with one that is
rated with a higher value.
We recommend that you identify the items listed in the following packing list. If you find that all
the items are not present, please contact us.
Item
BCM-144 Mobile Radio
DC Power Cable w/15A Fuse
Mounting Bracket
DTMF Microphone
Microphone Hanger (w/screws)




Screw Set:
5x16 mm self-tapping screw
Hex-headed screw w/washer
Spring Washer
Flat Washer
Quantity
Image 1: Radio Connections and bracket mounting.
Connecting the Microphone:
 Insert the microphone plug into jack on the front panel of
the transceiver. Be sure the tab on the microphone plug
is facing the left hand side.
 Mount the microphone on the microphone hanger where
it will be within easy reach of the user.

To remove the microphone plug, press the tab on the
connector while pulling the plug out of the transceiver
jack.
SPECIFICATIONS:
General
Number of Channels:
BCM-144
250
Working Voltage:
13.8 V DC +/- 15%
Channel Spacing:
25kHz/12.5kHz
Weight:
Frequency Range:
Dimensions (H x W x D):
Frequency Stability:
Operating Temperature:
2.4 lbs
144.0-147.995 MHz (TX) / 136.0-174.0 MHz (RX)
1.75 x 6.5 x 6.75” (45 x 165 x 171.5 mm)
+/- 1.5 ppm (-30 to +60 C)
-30 C to +60 C
Antenna Connector:
SO-239
Antenna Impedance:
50
Current Drain:
With 13.8 V Desktop Supply –
Transmit Mode – 50 W ~ 7.9 Amps DC
Transmit Mode – 5 W ~ 2.6 Amps DC
Receive Standby mode - 150 mA DC
Receive Mode front Audio spkr out Max ~ 450 mA DC
TRANSMITTER
RF Output
Maximum Deviation:
Spurious and Harmonic
FM Hum and Noise
Audio Distortion
Audio Freq Response
Output Impedance
Programmable – 5W / 10W / 25W / 50W
+/- 5kHz (25 kHz) +/- 2.5 kHz (12.5 kHz)
70dB
40dB (12.5 kHz), 45 dB (25 kHz)
3% Maximum with 1 kHz Modulation
+1, -3dB from 6dB/Octave pre-emphasis from 300 ~ 3000
Hz
50 ohms
RECEIVER
Sensitivity
0.25 uV 12 dB SINAD
Squelch Sensitivity
0.22 uV 10 dB SINAD
Selectivity
Spurious and Harmonic
Rejection
FM Hum and Noise
Audio Output Power
Audio Distortion
Audio Freq Response
IF Frequencies
Input Impedance
65 dB (12.5 kHz), 70 dB (25 kHz)
75dB
40dB (12.5 kHz), 45 dB (25 kHz)
4 Watts across 4 Ohm Load
Less than 5% at rated output
1, -3dB from 6dB/Octave de-emphasis from 300 ~ 3000 Hz
21.4 MHz and 455 kHz
50 ohms
In our on-going commitment to quality specifications are subject to change without notice.
Features

High Quality Mitsubishi Amplifier Module (RA60H1317M1A)

Selectable power – 5W / 10W / 25W / 50W

250 Channels

Narrow and Wide Band Operation

High Quality Heavy-Duty DTMF microphone

Commercial grade construction

128 x 32 Dot Matrix Graphic LCD

DSUB15 Accessory Connector

4W Front-Mounted Speaker

External Speaker Port

Selectable Squelch Level (1-9)

CSQ, CTCSS, and DCS Encode / Decode

Programmable COS function (Active Low – Carrier or Valid Decode)

Time-Out Timer

VFO Scan and Memory Scan

Memory Store and Delete

Front Panel Alignment of TX Voice, Sub Audible , and DTMF Tone Deviation

Windows-Based Programmer and Flash upgrade utility
… and many more!
CHAPTER 2: Getting Acquainted
Image 2: BCM Radio Front
Image 3: BCM Radio Rear
Image 4: BCM Radio Display LCD Icons
10
CHAPTER 3: CONTROLS and DISPLAY OVERVIEW
1. After power is applied, the radio is turned on by pressing and holding the
volume control knob for approx 2 seconds. The radio defaults to VFO mode
and the RX frequency is displayed. The volume control knob is located on
the left side of the radio. Once turned on, the radio will cycle through
displaying Model name, Firmware Version, and Channel name or Frequency
depending on Mode. The associated icons will be displayed as well.
2. To increase/decrease the audio volume level, rotate the POWER/VOL knob.
3. To power down the radio, press-and-hold the POWER/VOL knob for
approximately two seconds.
Front Panel Keypad:
The two knobs on the radio are push-button style rotary knobs.
Knob on left: Volume Control Knob, Power On/OFF Push Button,
Knob on right: Channel Up/Down and Enter switch via push button.
S-Key: Enter/Exit Scan mode.
A-Key: Enter/Exit Alignment mode.
B-Key: Enter/Exit Menu Mode
-Key: Momentary Monitor On/OFF
Tri-Colored Status LED:
RED – Transmit / YELLOW – Receive / GREEN – Valid DECODE
DTMF Microphone Keypad:
The BCM-144 sports a 15-button DTMF (0-9, A,B,C) keypad
for operating the radio.
The DTMF keys allow for entering frequencies while the radio
is in VFO mode.
 DTMF Button A: Switching between VFO mode and
memory mode.
 DTMF Button B: Channel DOWN
 DTMF Button C: Channel UP
11
CHAPTER 4: QUICK START – GET ME ON THE AIR!
We’ve made effort to make this radio as easy to use as possible. Therefore, by
way of example this quick start procedure should quickly get you on the air talking
on your favorite repeater system.
For this procedure, the radio must be in VFO mode. This is observed by noting a
frequency on the display. Typically, a memory channel will have alpha characters
associated with the channel in the display. Pressing the ‘A’ button on the DTMF
mic or pressing-and-releasing the SELECT knob will toggle between VFO and
Memory mode. Make sure you’re in VFO mode.
Programming for use with a 2 meter repeater:
In North America, the general split for most 2 meter repeaters is 0.6 MHz.
Setting RX Frequency:
To enter the desired RX frequency, simply key the frequency into the radio using
the DTMF keypad. For example: Your repeater transmits on 146.74 MHz and
receives on 146.14 MHz and uses a CTCSS tone of 114.8 Hz on the input and
output. To enter 146.74 MHz, use the DTMF Mic keypad. Key in:
1–4–6–7–4
The radio will confirm programming with finishing out the remaining zeros a ‘good’
confirm beep should be heard.
OFFSET for TX
To enter the -0.6 MHz OFFSET from the RX frequency, follow this procedure:
1. On the Front Panel, press-and-release the ‘B’ button to access the radio
personality menu. The FREQ STEP SIZE will be displayed.
2. Rotate the select knob clockwise until FREQ OFFSET: is on the top line of the
display. The bottom line of the display will be the current OFFSET.
3. Press-and-release the SELECT knob to enter change mode. A good confirm
beep should be heard.
4. Rotate the SELECT knob clockwise or counter clockwise to view –0.6 MHz, 0
MHz, or +0.6 MHz. In our example of 146.14 we want to choose a -0.6 MHz
offset so rotate the SELECT knob to choose –0.6 MHz.
12
5. Then press-and-release the SELECT knob. A good confirm beep should be
heard.
6. To exit personality MENU mode, press-and-release the “B” button. The
radio should revert back to displaying the VFO frequency.
The radio is now ready to operate in DUPLEX mode. It will receive on 146.74 MHz
and transmit on 146.14 MHz.
RX CTCSS/DCS Entry
1. Press the “B” button to access the personality menu. Rotate the SELECT
knob until RX SQUELCH: is displayed.
2. Press the SELECT knob to access the menu item select. Rotate the SELECT
knob until 114.8 is on the display. Press the SELECT knob to select 114.8.
A beep should be heard.
TX CTCSS/DCS Entry
1. Rotate the SELECT knob until TX SQUELCH is displayed.
2. Press the SELECT knob to access the menu item select. Rotate the SELECT
knob until 114.8 is displayed. Press the SELECT knob to select and store
114.8. A beep should be heard.
3. To exit the personality menu, press and release the “B” button. The radio
will return to VFO mode with the RX frequency displayed. In addition, the
SINE wave icon will be displayed indicating the radio is programmed to
decode CTCSS/DCS.
You should now be able to communicate radio-to-radio through your local 2 meter
repeater! The remainder of this manual will acquaint you with many of the
features of the BCM-144. Enjoy!
13
CHAPTER 5: Basic Operation
 TX
1. Press PTT and face the microphone before talking. The LED should turn RED
indicating TX. To ensure good voice quality, the distance between your
mouth and the microphone should be between 2.5 and 5 cm.
2. Release PTT to put radio back in receive (RX).
 RX
1. Upon power up, the radio defaults to a pre-programmed or default RX
Frequency.
2. When radio is receiving a valid call, the speaker un-mutes and the green
LED lights.
3. Certain conditions may be required for the radio to un-mute and receive.
For example, proper CTCSS/DCS signal decode might be required in order
for the radio to un-mute. In addition, the receiving signal must be strong
enough to break the squelch (SQL) setting.
4. CTCSS/DCS signaling is a special squelch protocol and can help to ignore
unwanted calls on the channel. CTCSS/DCS is programmed on a per
channel basis. To communicate using CTCSS/DCS, other radios must have
the same signaling in their radios.
Working Modes

Frequency Mode (VFO)
To change to VFO mode press the SELECT knob button or press the “A”
button on the DTMF microphone. In this mode you can use the DTMF mic
keypad to enter the desired RX Frequency on which you would like to
communicate. You can also step up/down in frequency by pressing the ‘B’
and ‘C’ buttons on the DTMF mic or simply rotating the SELECT knob. The
step size up and down is determined by FREQ STEP SIZE programming.

Memory Mode
To change to MEMORY mode press the SELECT knob button or press the “A”
button on the DTMF microphone. In this mode you rotate the SELECT knob
to step through the pre-programmed channels. The names of the channels
will be displayed. You can also step through the pre-programmed channels
by using the “B” and “C” on the DTMF microphone.
14

Alignment Mode
To enter the Alignment Menu mode, press the ‘A’ button on the radio control
head. From this menu you can adjust SQUELCH level, RF output power, TX
Voice Dev, TX Sub Dev, DTMF Tone Deviation, and Channel Spacing. To exit
the alignment mode menu simply press the ‘A’ button.

Radio Personality Menu Mode
To enter the radio personality menu mode, press the ‘B’ button on the radio
control head. From this menu you can adjust the FREQ STEP SIZE, RX
SQUELCH, TX SQUELCH, FREQ OFFSET, SCAN UNMUTE condition, SCAN
SPEED time, SCAN HANG time, SCAN WAIT SIG time, STUCK MIC TIME, and
BEEP TONES. To exit the radio personality menu simply press the ‘B’
button.
15
Chapter 6: HOW-TO Function GUIDE:
● VFO Frequency Entry
All VFO frequency entry is done using the DTMF Keypad microphone. The
precision of RX frequency you are allowed to enter is based on the FREQ STEP
SIZE. For example, if the FREQ STEP SIZE is 10,000 Hz, then you need to enter
the first 5 digits of the frequency. If it is 12500, then you need to enter the first 6
digits. Once the required number of digits entered is satisfied, a good beep is
emitted and the radio programs the PLL. As the frequency is entered, only certain
numbers are allowed in certain of the frequency fields. For example, each
frequency entry must start with a ‘2’. If the wrong digit is entered in the current
field, the radio will emit a ‘bad’ beep. If an entry is not made within 3 seconds of
each other, the entry times out and the previous frequency is displayed.
● Storing a Channel to Memory
Channel frequencies are stored in VFO mode only. The VFO power setting at the
time of storage is what is stored for the memory channel.
While the RX frequency to store is displayed, Press-and-hold the SELECT button
for approx 2 seconds. The moment the SELECT button is pressed, the radio will
enter memory mode and display the current memory channel. However, if the
SELECT button is held, the radio will emit a ‘good’ beep and redisplay and store
the VFO channel in memory and append “-MEM” to the entry. The channel is
stored in the nearest vacant channel space at the top of the memory map. You
are now in Memory mode. To return to VFO mode, press the SELECT button.
● Deleting a Channel from Memory
Deleting a channel is done only in Memory mode.
While in memory mode and on the memory channel you’d like to delete, press and
hold the SELECT button for approx 2 seconds. The moment the SELECT button is
pressed a good beep is emitted and the radio enters VFO mode. The radio
displays the VFO frequency. However, continue to hold the SELECT button until
another good ‘beep’ is emitted. At this point the memory channel is deleted from
memory. You are now in VFO mode. To return to MEMORY mode, press the
SELECT button.
● Sending DTMF tones while Transmitting
Simply PTT the radio and press the 0-9, A, B, and C while transmitting. The DTMF
tones will modulate the carrier.
16
RADIO ALIGNMENT

Setting SQUELCH (SQL)
The purpose of the squelch control is to mute the speaker when no signals are
present. With the squelch level (1-9) correctly set, the speaker will only un-mute
when there is a sufficient signal present. The higher the squelch level, the
stronger the signals must be to un-mute the speaker. The appropriate squelch
level depends on the ambient RF noise conditions.
1. Press the ‘A’ button on the control head. SQUELCH will be seen on the top
line of the display with the current value on the bottom line.
2. Press the SELECT button and rotate the SELECT knob to the value you want.
It is advised a service monitor generating signal be used to set the
SQUELCH level to your liking. Observe the YELLOW led and the speaker
muting and un-muting as you adjust this setting.
3.

Press the SELECT button to confirm and store the desired setting. To exit
the ALIGNMENT menu press the ‘A’ button.
Changing Power Level
The BCM-144 supports four programmable TX Power output settings: 5W, 10W,
25W, and 50W. TX power is adjusted by accessing the alignment menu. The TX
Power level applies to VFO mode only. The memory channels have their own TX
Power level. Power level indicated by the POWER LEVEL ICON on the display.
1. Make sure the radio is in VFO mode. To set the TX Power level, access the
Alignment menu by pressing the ‘A’ button on the control head. The word
SQUELCH is displayed.
2. Rotate the SELECT knob clockwise one tick and the word RF POWER is
displayed along with the current POWER setting.
3. Press the SELECT knob to adjust the TX POWER level. A good beep is
emitted.
4. Rotate the SELECT knob to your desired power level. If PTT is pressed, you
should be able to confirm the setting on your power meter.
5. Once the desired setting is confirmed, press the SELECT button. A good
beep is emitted.
6.
To exit the alignment menu, press the ‘A’ button on the control head and
the radio will revert back to VFO mode.
17

Changing TX VOICE DEVIATION
The BCM-144 allows for optimizing the TX Voice Deviation levels. The settings are
from 0-7. Where Deviation increases from 0 to 7. The voice deviation level is a
radio wide setting applied to both VFO and Memory channels. It is recommended
a service monitor be used to adjust this setting.
1. Make sure the radio is in VFO mode. Press the ‘A’ button the control head
to access the alignment menu.
2. Rotate the SELECT knob until TX VOICE DEV is displayed on the top line
and the current level is displayed on the bottom line.
3. Press the SELECT button to allow for changing the TX VOICE DEV. A
good beep will be emitted.
4. PTT the radio and speak “FIVE” into the microphone and adjust the
overall TX deviation while observing the effect on a service monitor.
Keep in mind, the radio will transmit the programmed VFO TX
CTCSS/DCS signal while adjusting the deviation.
5. Once the desired value is obtained, press the SELECT to go back to the
menu. A good beep is emitted.
6. To exit the alignment menu, press the ‘A’ button on the control head and
the radio will revert back to VFO mode. A good beep is emitted.

Changing TX CTCSS/DCS Deviation
The BCM-144 allows for optimizing the TX CTCSS/DCS Deviation levels. The
settings are from 0-7. Where deviation increases from 0 to 7. The TX CTCSS/DCS
deviation level is a radio wide setting applied to both VFO and Memory channels.
It is recommended a service monitor be used to adjust this setting.
18
1.
Make sure the radio is in VFO mode. Press the ‘A’ button the control head
to access the alignment menu.
2.
Rotate the SELECT knob until TX SUB DEV is displayed on the top line and
the current level is displayed on the bottom line.
3.
Press the SELECT button to allow for changing the TX SUB DEV. A good
beep will be emitted.
4.
PTT the radio and adjust the overall TX SUB Dev while observing the
effect on a service monitor. Keep in mind, the radio will transmit the
programmed VFO TX CTCSS/DCS signal while adjusting the deviation. If
there’s no signal present there may be no TX Signal set. This will need to
be done by selecting a CTCSS tone from the TX Signal option in the
personality menu. (See section for changing TX CTCSS/DCS)
5.
Once the desired value is obtained, press the SELECT to go back to the
menu. A good beep is emitted.
6.
To exit the alignment menu, press the ‘A’ button on the control head and
the radio will revert back to VFO mode. A good beep is emitted.

Changing DTMF Tone Deviation
The BCM-144 allows changing the TX DTMF tone Deviation level. The settings are
from 0-7. Where deviation increases from 0 to 7. The TX DTMF deviation level is
a radio wide setting applied to both VFO and Memory channels. It is
recommended a service monitor be used to adjust this setting.
1.
Make sure the radio is in VFO mode. Press the ‘A’ button the control head
to access the alignment menu.
2.
Rotate the SELECT knob until DTMF TONE DEV is displayed on the top line
and the current level is displayed on the bottom line.
3.
Press the SELECT button to allow for changing the DTMF TONE DEV. A
good beep will be emitted.
4.
PTT the radio and press a DTMF key on the microphone. Adjust the DTMF
Dev while observing the effect on a service monitor. Keep in mind, the
radio will transmit the programmed VFO TX CTCSS/DCS signal while
adjusting the deviation. If there’s no signal present there may be no TX
Signal set. This may need to be done by selecting a CTCSS tone from the
TX Signal option in the personality menu. (See section for changing TX
CTCSS/DCS)
5.
Once the desired value is obtained, press the SELECT to go back to the
menu. A good beep is emitted.
6.
To exit the alignment menu, press the ‘A’ button on the control head and
the radio will revert back to VFO mode. A good beep is emitted.

Changing Channel Spacing
The BCM-144 can operate in either WIDE or NARROW band. The channel spacing
setting applies only to VFO channels. Memory channel’s spacing is defined using
the BCM programmer. To change the channel spacing, do the following.
1.
Make sure the radio is in VFO mode. Press the ‘A’ button the control head
to access the alignment menu. A good beep is emitted.
19
2.
Rotate the SELECT knob until CHANNEL SPACING: is displayed on the top
line and the current channel spacing is displayed on the bottom line.
3.
Press the SELECT button to allow for changing the channel spacing. A
good beep will be emitted.
4.
Rotate the SELECT button to change to either WIDE or NARROW. Press
the SELECT knob to store and go back to the menu.
5.
To exit the alignment menu, press the ‘A’ button on the control head and
the radio will revert back to VFO mode. A good beep is emitted.
The radio will display the channel space setting on the top line of the display with
a ‘N’ or ‘W’ icon.
PERSONALITY SETTINGS

Changing Frequency Step Size
In VFO mode, the BCM-144 allows for changing the step size as you step through
and scan VFO frequencies. The step sizes available are: 5kHz, 10kHz, 12.5kHz,
15kHz, 20kHz, 25kHz, and 30kHz.
1.
Make sure the radio is in VFO mode. Press the ‘B’ button the control head
to access the personality menu. A good beep is emitted.
2.
FREQ STEP SIZE is displayed on the top line and the current step is
displayed. Press the SELECT button to allow for changing the step size.
A good beep is emitted.
3.
Rotate the SELECT knob until the desired step size is obtained. Press the
SELECT button to store the step size and re-enter the personality menu.
A good beep is emitted.
4.
To exit the personality menu, press the ‘B’ button on the control head and
the radio will revert back to VFO mode. A good beep is emitted.

Changing RX SIGNAL
In VFO mode, the BCM-144 can be programmed to un-mute on CARRIER, CTCSS,
or DCS signaling. This menu item allows for programming the RX Signal.
1.
20
Make sure the radio is in VFO mode. Press the ‘B’ button the control head
to access the personality menu. A good beep is emitted.
2.
FREQ STEP SIZE is displayed on the top line. Rotate the SELECT knob
until the word RX SIGNAL is displayed on the top line.
3.
Press the SELECT button to allow for changing the RX SIGNAL. A good
beep is emitted.
4.
Rotate the SELECT knob until the desired RX signal is desired. Press the
SELECT button to store the RX Signal and re-enter the personality menu.
A good beep is emitted.
5.
To exit the personality menu, press the ‘B’ button on the control head and
the radio will revert back to VFO mode. A good beep is emitted.

Changing TX SIGNAL
In VFO mode, the BCM-144 can be programmed to transmit no-tone, CTCSS, or
DCS signaling. This menu item allows for programming the TX Signal.
1.
Make sure the radio is in VFO mode. Press the ‘B’ button the control head
to access the personality menu. A good beep is emitted.
2.
FREQ STEP SIZE is displayed on the top line. Rotate the SELECT knob
until the word TX SIGNAL is displayed on the top line.
3.
Press the SELECT button to allow for changing the TX SIGNAL. A good
beep is emitted.
4.
Rotate the SELECT knob until the desired TX signal is desired. Press the
SELECT button to store the TX Signal and re-enter the personality menu.
A good beep is emitted.
5.
To exit the personality menu, press the ‘B’ button on the control head and
the radio will revert back to VFO mode. A good beep is emitted.

Changing the FREQUENCY OFFSET
The BCM-144 provides an easy way to make a quick selection of the 0.6 MHz TX
offset required by repeaters: -0.6 MHz, 0 Hz, and +0.6 MHz. In VFO mode, when
PTT is pressed, the radio adds the offset to the selected frequency. If the TX
frequency is out of range (144.0-147.995), a bad beep is emitted. Otherwise, the
call is permitted. To change the frequency offset, follow these steps:
1.
Make sure the radio is in VFO mode. Press the ‘B’ button on the control
head to access the personality menu. A good beep is emitted.
2.
Rotate the SELECT knob until FREQ OFFSET is displayed on the top line
and the current offset is displayed on the bottom line.
21
3.
Press the SELECT button to be able to change the OFFSET. A good beep
is emitted.
4.
Rotate the SELECT knob clockwise or counter clockwise to find your
desired offset. Once found, press the SELECT knob. A good beep is
emitted and control goes back to the menu.
5.
To exit the personality menu, press the ‘B’ button on the control head and
the radio will revert back to VFO mode. A good beep is emitted.

Change the BEEP Tones ON/OFF
The Beep Alert tones can be toggles ON or OFF.
1.
Make sure the radio is in VFO mode. Press the ‘B’ button on the control
head to access the personality menu. If Beeps Tones are ON, a good
beep is emitted.
2.
Rotate the SELECT knob until BEEP TONES is displayed on the top line
and ON or OFF is displayed on the bottom line.
3.
Press the SELECT button to be able to change the status.
4.
Rotate the SELECT knob CW to turn ON, rotate the SELECT knob CCW to
turn OFF. Press the SELECT knob to exit the selection process. If beeps
are ON, a good beep is emitted and control goes back to the menu. The
note icon will be illuminated on the display when BEEP TONES are ON.
5.
To exit the personality menu, press the ‘B’ button on the control head and
the radio will revert back to VFO mode. A good beep is emitted.

TX Time Out Time (TOT)
In the event the radio is keyed too long, this timer will cause the radio turn off the
RF PA. For example if the Mic is mistakenly left in the seat wedged against
something where the PTT button is pressed. This timer will prevent the radio from
transmitting too long.
22
1.
Make sure the radio is in VFO mode. Press the ‘B’ button on the control
head to access the personality menu. A good beep is emitted.
2.
Rotate the SELECT knob until “TX TIME OUT s” is displayed on the top line
and the current value is displayed on the bottom line. The value is
displayed in seconds.
3.
Press the SELECT button to be able to change the time.
4.
Rotate the SELECT knob to the number of seconds desired for TX length
before timeout. Once achieved, press the SELECT knob to go back to the
menu. A good beep is emitted.
5.
To exit the personality menu, press the ‘B’ button on the control head and
the radio will revert back to VFO mode. A good beep is emitted.
SCAN OPERATION
The BCM-144 supports two scanning modes. VFO Scan and Memory Scan. Scan
is enabled/disabled by pressing the ‘S’ button on the control head. When scan is
enabled, the rotating ‘circled S’ icon is illuminated on the top line of the display.
The radio will then begin traversing the channels at the programmed scan speed.
Scanning direction is determined by rotating the SELECT knob one tick
clockwise/counter-clockwise as the radio scans. The default direction is UP.
When carrier is detected on a scanned channel, the radio will pause scanning.
In VFO Scan or Memory Scan mode, if the un-mute condition is selected to be
CARRIER, the radio will defeat the RX SIGNAL requirement and un-mute the radio.
Otherwise, the radio will wait for the Scan Hang Signal Time looking for the
programmed RX SIGNAL (CTCSS or DCS).
Responding to a call by pressing PTT exits scan mode. When the conversation is
over, scan is re-started by pressing the ‘S’ button on the control head.
To exit scan, press the SCAN button or simply press the PTT button on the
microphone.
In memory scan, to determine if a channel is in the scan list, an “S” icon is
displayed on the top line along with the channel name.
Adding memory channels to the scan list
To add a channel to the scan list, press-and-hold the ‘A’ button for approx 2
seconds until the ‘S’ icon is displayed on the top line. A good beep is emitted upon
addition.


Deleting memory channels from the scan list
To delete a channel from the scan list, make sure it’s in the scan list, press-andhold the ‘A’ button for approx 2 seconds until the ‘S’ icon disappears from the top
line. A good beep is emitted upon deletion.
23

Changing Un-mute condition
This determines what condition allows the radio to un-mute in VFO or MEM Scan
mode. The radio may have a RX Signal programmed; yet you may want to use
the radio to scan for carrier as you drive into different areas. Having this condition
set to un-mute on carrier will allow for defeating the RX Signal option as you look
for working stations.
1. Make sure the radio is in VFO mode. Press the ‘B’ button on the
control head to access the personality menu. A good beep is emitted.
2. Rotate the SELECT knob until “SCAN UNMUTE” is displayed on the top
line and the current setting is displayed on the bottom line.
3. Press the SELECT button to be able to change the setting.
4. Rotate the SELECT knob to CARRIER or VALID SIG DECODE. Once
achieved, press the SELECT knob to go back to the menu. A good
beep is emitted.
5. To exit the personality menu, press the ‘B’ button on the control head
and the radio will revert back to VFO mode. A good beep is emitted.

Changing Scan Speed Time
The Scan Speed determines the rate at which the radio scans VFO channels or
memory channels. A recommended value here is 125 ms.
1. Make sure the radio is in VFO mode. Press the ‘B’ button on the
control head to access the personality menu. A good beep is emitted.
2. Rotate the SELECT knob until “SCAN SPEED - ms” is displayed on the
top line and the current scan speed is displayed on the bottom line.
3. Press the SELECT button to be able to change the scan speed.
4. Rotate the SELECT knob to the desired scan speed. Once achieved,
press the SELECT knob to go back to the menu. A good beep is
emitted.
5. To exit the personality menu, press the ‘B’ button on the control head
and the radio will revert back to VFO mode. A good beep is emitted.
24

Changing Scan Hang Time
The Scan Hang Time is the time spent on the scanned channel after a valid call is
received. Make this time long enough to give opportunity to respond to the
scanned call.
1. Make sure the radio is in VFO mode. Press the ‘B’ button on the
control head to access the personality menu. A good beep is emitted.
2. Rotate the SELECT knob until “SCAN HANG - ms” is displayed on the
top line and the current scan hang time is displayed on the bottom
line.
3. Press the SELECT button to be able to change the scan hang time.
4. Rotate the SELECT knob to the desired scan hang time. Once
achieved, press the SELECT knob to go back to the menu. A good
beep is emitted.
5. To exit the personality menu, press the ‘B’ button on the control head
and the radio will revert back to VFO mode. A good beep is emitted.

Changing Scan Wait For Signal Time
The Scan wait for Signal Time is the amount of time the radio will wait looking for
valid signal decode after carrier is detected on the scanned channel. When this
timer expires, the radio resumes scan. A recommended value here is 450 ms.
1. Make sure the radio is in VFO mode. Press the ‘B’ button on the
control head to access the personality menu. A good beep is emitted.
2. Rotate the SELECT knob until “SCAN WAIT SIG - ms” is displayed on
the top line and the current scan wait time is displayed on the bottom
line.
3. Press the SELECT button to be able to change the scan wait time.
4. Rotate the SELECT knob to the desired scan wait time. Once achieved,
press the SELECT knob to go back to the menu. A good beep is
emitted.
5. To exit the personality menu, press the ‘B’ button on the control head
and the radio will revert back to VFO mode. A good beep is emitted.
25
Chapter 7: Data Channels and Data Operation
Interfacing a TNC or any data device to the BCM-144, requires use of the 15 pin
D-SUB accessory connector. The following table denotes the pin out for what
signals are to be applied to the correct pins.
PIN
10
15
Signal
TX Data Input – (0-3V)
External PTT 3.3V: Active LOW
RX Audio Flat 100mV Output
COS Out – Carrier Off: 3.3V – On: 0V
GND
Pin 2 is AC coupled to the TCXO with a 4.7-uF capacitor. Therefore, direct access
to the modulator is given. This allows for transmitting a broader bandwidth
signals.
26
APPENDIX A: Terminal Description
27
Appendix B: CTCSS/DCS Tables
Available CTCSS Tones
67.0
71.9
74.4
77.0
79.7
82.5
85.4
88.5
91.5
94.8
97.4
100.0
103.5
107.2
110.9
114.8
118.8
123.0
127.3
131.8
136.5
141.3
146.2
151.4
156.7
162.2
165.5
173.8
179.9
186.2
192.8
203.5
210.7
218.1
225.7
233.6
241.8
250.3
Available DCS CODES (each code can be inverted as noted by
an ‘i’ next to field in LCD display)
023
025
026
031
032
043
047
051
054
065
071
072
28
073
074
114
115
116
125
131
132
134
143
152
155
156
162
165
172
174
205
223
226
243
244
245
251
261
263
265
271
306
311
315
331
343
346
351
364
365
371
411
412
413
423
431
432
445
464
465
466
503
506
516
532
546
565
606
612
624
627
631
632
654
662
664
703
712
723
731
732
734
743
754
WARRANTY AND SERVICE
Limited Warranty
This product is warranted by BridgeCom Systems, Inc. to be free of defects in materials and
workmanship for a period of one year from the date of purchase. If a defective part causes
this product to operate improperly during the one-year warranty period, we will service it to the
original owner free of charge if shipped to BridgeCom Systems at the owner’s expense. This
warranty does not apply to any parts damaged due to improper use or violation of instructions.
It does not extend to damage incurred by misuse or abuse, unauthorized modifications, natural
causes such as lightning, fire, floods, and other such catastrophes; nor to damage caused by
environmental extremes, such as power surges and/or transients, theft, or accidents.
All warranties must be performed at BridgeCom Systems, Inc.
unauthorized repair work attempted by the customer.
No credit will be given for
BridgeCom Systems, Inc. will repair or replace the equipment and return to the customer
freight pre-paid, within the continental United States. Equipment found not to be defective will
be returned at the customer’s expense, and it will include the cost to ship, test, and return the
equipment.
Equipment returned for repair must have a return merchandise authorization (RMA) number.
To obtain an RMA contact our Technical Support Department at (816)-532-8451 or email
techsupport@BridgeComSystems.com. All returned equipment must have the RMA number
listed on the outside of the shipping container.
Ship all returns to:
BridgeCom Systems, Inc. Attn:Repair
102 NE State Route 92 Hwy
Suite C
Smithville, MO 64089
Out of warranty repairs and service charges are billed at the current hourly rate plus parts.
PRICES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.
This document contains information proprietary to Bridge Embedded Systems, Inc. and
BridgeCom Systems, Inc. Its contents may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without
express written permission from either Bridge Embedded Systems, Inc. or BridgeCom Systems,
Inc.. The information is provided “AS IS” without warranty of any kind, either expressed or
implied. Bridge Embedded Systems, Inc. or BridgeCom Systems, Inc. does not assume any
liability for damages. Technical information and specifications in this document are subject to
change without notice. Changes or modifications to this device not expressly approved by
Bridgecom Systems could void the user’s authorization to operate this device.
29
FCC Statements
Warning and Compliance Statement:
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept
any interference including received interference that may cause undesired operation.
WARNING: Modification of this device to receive cellular radiotelephone service signals is
prohibited under FCC rules and Federal Law.
FCC Part 15.21 Warning StatementNOTE: THE GRANTEE IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS NOT
EXPRESSLY APPROVED BY THE PARTY RESPONSIBLE FOR COMPLIANCE. SUCH
MODIFICATIONS COULD VOID THE USER’S AUTHORITY TO OPERATE THE EQUIPMENT.
30
NOTES:
31
BridgeCom Systems, Inc.
102 NE State Route 92 Hwy, Suite C
Smithville, M0 64089
816-532-8451
www.BridgeComSystems.com
Printed in United States of America
32

---

Source Exif Data:

File Type                       : PDF
File Type Extension             : pdf
MIME Type                       : application/pdf
PDF Version                     : 1.7
Linearized                      : No
Author                          : BES2
Create Date                     : 2017:02:08 16:07:10-06:00
Creator                         : PDF Architect 4
Modify Date                     : 2017:02:08 16:07:10-06:00
Producer                        : PDF Architect 4
Page Count                      : 32

EXIF Metadata provided by EXIF.tools